The Arch of Titus, 1855

Art Historical Context

In 1855, Scottish photographer Robert MacPherson capturedThe Arch of Titus* in an exquisite albumen silver print, now housed in the Art Institute of Chicago Photography and Media Department. MacPherson, based in Rome from the 1840s, specialized in architectural photography, producing meticulous records of the city's ancient monuments. This 36.9 × 27.7 cm image (mounted to 64.5 × 49.2 cm) the iconic triumphal arch erected in 81 AD by Domitian to honor his brother Titus's victories, including the sack of Jerusalem in 70 AD The arch's detailed reliefs—depicting spoils like the menorah from the Second Temple—stand out sharply against Rome's timeless backdrop. The albumen silver print process, introduced in the 1840s, revolutionized photography with its glossy surface from egg-white coating, yielding rich tones and fine detail ideal for documenting architecture. MacPherson's straightforward composition emphasizes the arch's grandeur and historical patina, making this print a vital 19th-century artifact in preserving classical antiquity before mass tourism and restoration altered sites. This work bridges ancient Rome and Victorian-era visual culture, offering visitors a window into imperial triumph and the dawn of photographic preservation. Marvel at how MacPherson's lens immortalized a symbol of Roman power that still echoes through history.

About the Artist

Robert MacPherson · 1811–1872

Robert Macpherson (1811–1872) was a Scottish artist who began his career in medicine before pivoting to painting and ultimately pioneering photography in Rome. Born in the Tayside region near Edinburgh, he enrolled at the University of Edinburgh in 1831 to study medicine but left without graduating after four years. He then trained at the Royal Scottish Academy, where he exhibited portraits from 1...